Another Rangers slip-up. Another which sits at the feet of the leaders in the camp. Yet another which has brought into question the captaining credentials of James Tavernier.
The flying wingback is a hero one week, a zero the next. There’s perhaps no other player who spends more time yoyoing in and out of the fans good and bad books.
Chosen as the captain by another captain in Steven Gerrard, you get the feeling we should trust him on this one. But many fans don’t think the Yorkshireman is fit to wear the armband.
They see a lack of anger, aggression and decibels on the field as a sign. There have been calls to replace Tav as Captain with McGregor.
But do those calling for his head even have a point? Or is it just an overreaction to some poor form.
James Tavernier is Gerrard’s captain for a reason
Tav isn’t just one of our most talented players, he’s also one of our longest serving.
The defender has been at Ibrox since 2015. Really, when you think about it, when a new era at Rangers begun.
He’s grown with this squad and survived every cull. He’s clearly well-liked amongst the playing staff and he’s a figure of respect for the players.
On the field, he rarely shirks responsibility. Even if he isn’t playing well. The wingback likes to get on the ball and is aggressive with it. At times, he seems to be the only option too.
Tavernier, 27, has also contributed 10 goals and 13 assists this season. That’s a direct contributiuon of 23 goals in a whopping 31 games. He’s actually vital.
Often the captain seems ostracised for special criticism when things go wrong, but sometimes it feels a little unmerited.
One thing Tav must understand is that as a captain more will be expected of him. Especially when the chips are down.
For me, his stats show he can lead by example.
Does he need to be in your face to be a good captain? This legendary ex-Rangers captain doesn’t think so.
